Bay Views - Association of Children's Librarians of Northern California

"One of the most professional recordings for children I have ever heard."

July 2002

by Penny Peck

Berkeley resident Gunnar Madsen has had two music careers; he was the founding member of the a cappella group, The Bobs, and is now a children’s performer and recording artist. His latest CD, “Ants in My Pants,” is one of the most professional recordings for children I have ever heard. From the arrangements and the wonderful Doo-Wop-like background vocals, to the musical accompaniment and wealth of original songs, Madsen has it all. “Ants in My Pants” has cuts done before a live audience, like the opening title song that sounds a little like Elvis. “Don’t Shake Hands With a One-eyed Pirate” is a little Gilbert and Sullivan-like, sounding like a Broadway cast recording. “Ballad of the Lonesome rider” is a stand-out, like something from The Riders in the Sky. I also enjoyed the ballad, “Are We There Yet?” which has a neo-folk, bluesy quality.

Madsen’s music will please adults as well as kids due to the clever lyrics, overall originality, and high production values. What is amazing is that Madsen provides all the vocals and plays all the instruments! He also wrote or co-wrote all the songs! “Ants in My Pants” has already been named a Top Ten recording for children by Tower Pulse magazine, and has received a Parents’ Choice Award. You can’t go wrong with this CD, especially for parents who are tired of kids’ music that underestimates the taste of children. A sure hit!

If you haven’t heard Madsen’s previous CD, you may also want to pick up “Old Mr. Mackle Hackle, “ first issued in 1999. It, too, has received several awards, including a Parents’ Choice Award and the 2000 Children’s Music Web Award. It also contains original songs, all written or co-written by Madsen. These songs represent lots of genres, from folk, to country, to Leiber and Stoller style rock and roll. With titles like “The Dinosaur Song” and “I’m a Little Twerp,” you know this will have child appeal. To order CDs, call 1-800-448-6369 or see the website at www.gunnarspot.com.

Parents' Choice Foundation